It probably won't be giving chase down a country lane in the fight against crime anytime soon but Dyfed Powys Police has unveiled its latest vehicle this week - a tractor with flashing blue lights.

The aim of the police tractor is public engagement in rural area. Credit: Dyfed Powys police

The force hopes the novelty piece of kit will strike a chord with rural communities and encourage public engagement in agricultural events over the summer months.

It was launched this week at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show in Llanelwedd, near Builth Wells.

We're very impressed with this new piece of kit - and are hoping it'll encourage people to come and have a look and to then speak to us at events over the summer.
Engagement with our rural communities is important to us.
We're sure it will appeal to children and adults alike, and as part of the fun why not have your photo taken with the police tractor.

– Inspector Tim Davies, Dyfed Powys Police

But the tractor will not be taking to the streets or lanes carrying out patrols as it is on loan and will be handed back later in the year.

Five police stations could close under plans by Dyfed Powys Police and the Crime Commissioner who says he wants to save money and get more bobbies on the beat.

Credit: ITV News

Commissioner, Christopher Salmon says he wants a modern police force where money is invested in officers rather than bricks and mortar.

Those under threat are:

Burry Port Police Station

Knighton Police Station

Llandysul Police Station

Llwynhendy Police Station

Saundersfoot Police Station

I understand that some people may be concerned at the prospect of change but I assure them that they can start looking forward to improved services.
In the meantime, we've created 30 new police officer posts in response to what the public have consistently told me in the 18 months since my election - they want to see officers on the streets. After all, it's bobbies that catch criminals - not bricks.

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There is growing concern for a missing teenager from Talsarn near Lampeter. Ryan Evans, 13, was last seen leaving his home at around 3:30pm yesterday. He did not return home last night which, his family say, is out of character.

Ryan is described as 5’6”, of stocky build, with collar-length dark brown hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing black tracksuit bottoms, a biscuit coloured t-shirt, socks but no shoes.

Police and mountain rescue teams have been searching for Ryan overnight. Anyone with information is urged to call Dyfed Powys Police on 101 or 0845 330 2000.

"She was a keen motorcyclist who loved life, people, nature and animals" said her family.

"She had just completed her first year at Birmingham City University in Diagnostic Radiography, which she was thoroughly enjoying and was looking forward to a successful career in the NHS combining her love of helping people and a technical, visual subject."